Turkey’s Best Bike Trails: Scenic and Unforgettable Cycling Adventures
Turkey's unique geography offers cycling enthusiasts unique routes ranging from the Mediterranean coast to the Black Sea forests, from the valleys of Cappadocia to the Taurus Mountains. This diversity appeals to cyclists of all levels with coastal, mountain, history and nature-themed routes.
So, what are the best cycling routes in Turkey? What are the best places for cycling in Turkey?
In this guide, we have compiled 10 popular cycling routes from all over Turkey. Each route aims to inspire you and give you ideas for your next pedal adventure. If you are ready, let's start exploring Turkey by bike!
1. Cappadocia Cycling Routes: A Magical Ride Amongst the Fairy Chimneys
Cappadocia offers a variety of routes for both mountain biking (MTB) and more leisurely rides amongst fairy chimneys, rock-carved churches and underground cities. Popular routes such as Ürgüp-Ortahisar, Uçhisar-Göreme-Çavuşin are of different difficulty levels. Spring and fall are ideal. Göreme Open Air Museum, Zelve and Derinkuyu can be seen. Bike rentals and tours are common in Göreme and Urgup.
2. Lycian Way: A Mediterranean Adventure in the Footsteps of History and Nature
Stretching from Fethiye to Antalya, this legendary hiking trail offers Mediterranean landscapes and ancient Lycian ruins; certain stages can be explored by MTB. The entire route, approximately 535-555 km long, may not be suitable for cycling; MTB-friendly sections, such as Fethiye-Kaş, should be chosen. It is often challenging and requires technical skill and endurance. Spring and fall are the best times. Places such as Saklikent, Patara, Kas, and Olympos can be seen; GPS and detailed route information are essential.
3. Gökova Bay Cycling Route: Pedal Against the Turquoise Waters of the Aegean
The Gulf of Gökova in Muğla offers routes through pine forests and turquoise waters, balancing challenging climbs with rewarding views and swimming breaks. The main route, approximately 260 km between Bodrum-Akyaka-Datça, is generally moderate to difficult and includes steep ramps. Spring (May) and fall are ideal. Places such as Akyaka, Çökertme and Datça are worth a visit.
4. Phrygian Valley Cycling Trails: On the Mysterious Trails of Ancient Phrygia
The Phrygian Valley in the triangle of Afyonkarahisar, Eskişehir and Kütahya offers a cycling journey through the rock tombs and monuments of the Phrygian civilisation. The 506 km marked Phrygian Way consists of three main branches that converge at Yazılıkaya (City of Midas) and is ideal for multi-day cycling adventures. As it is mostly dirt and stabilised roads, it requires MTB and robust equipment (medium-hard level). Spring and fall are suitable. Places such as Yazılıkaya, Aslantaş, and Ayazini should be seen.
Source: Bizevdeyokuz
5. Yenice Forests Cycling Trails: A Nature Getaway in the Heart of the Black Sea
The Yenice Forests in Karabük are one of the largest block forests in Turkey and have been designated as a conservation priority area by WWF. With its monumental trees and 292 km of marked mountain bike (MTB) routes, it offers a pristine nature experience. They are generally of moderate to difficult difficulty. Suitable from spring to autumn (especially for autumn colours). Eğriova Pond and Şeker Canyon can be seen. There are many camping areas.
6. Cycling Tour Around Lake Van: An Unforgettable Experience
This 400-430 km route around Turkey's largest lake offers the opportunity to experience the unique nature, history and culture of Eastern Anatolia. Usually lasting 5-7 days, the tour is challenging (e.g. climbing Mount Nemrut). Late spring and early fall are ideal. Akdamar Island, Van Castle, Nemrut Crater Lake and Ahlat Seljuk Cemetery are among the places to see. The hospitality of the local people stands out.
7. Istanbul Cycling Routes: Enjoyable Tours in the Heart of the City
Istanbul offers a variety of routes along the historic peninsula, the Marmara and Black Sea coasts, forested areas and the Prince Islands. Popular options include the Grand Tour of Büyükada, which is closed to vehicular traffic (including the ascent of St. George's Church), the flat Caddebostan Coast on the Asian side, and the rolling Rumeli Feneri - Kilyos trails on the European side. Difficulty level ranges from easy to medium-hard. Spring and fall are the best times.
8. The Caria Way Cycling Route: Hidden Beauties of the South Aegean
The Caria Way, which offers the opportunity to explore the untouched nature, ancient cities and bays of the ancient Caria region (Muğla and Aydın), is one of the longest hiking trails in Turkey; some sections are suitable for MTB. While the hiking trail exceeds 850 km, there is also a 191 km paved 'Bike/Travel Route' specially designed for cyclists. Spring and fall are ideal. Bozburun and Datça Peninsulas, Lake Bafa, Latmos Mountains and ancient cities such as Knidos can be seen.
Source: Kültür Portalı
9. Taurus Mountains Cycling Trails: Adrenaline-Filled Adventures to the Peaks
Running parallel to the Mediterranean coast, the Taurus Mountains offer MTB enthusiasts challenging climbs, breathtaking views and rich wildlife. Examples include the Karaisalı Tour in Adana (Varda Bridge, Kapıkaya Canyon), the Aladağlar National Park and the Anamur-Aydıncık route in Mersin. Generally moderate to very difficult, requiring good fitness and MTB experience. Spring and fall are the best times.
10. EuroVelo 8 Izmir Stage (Mediterranean Route): From Ancient Cities to the Aegean Coast
The European cycling network EuroVelo's Mediterranean Route (EV8) passes by the coast of Izmir in Turkey. The approximately 500 km Izmir stage starts in Dikili and Bergama and goes all the way to Selçuk and Ephesus. It combines UNESCO World Heritage ancient cities (17 Ionian cities such as Pergamon, Ephesus) with modern Aegean life. It is generally of medium difficulty and mostly follows paved roads. Spring and fall are ideal. The route is well marked.
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